The Anchorage Dog Kennel Alternative

Anchorage doesn't turn a cold shoulder to pets. In fact, Alaska's state sport IS dog mushing, and the famed Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race starts in downtown Anchorage the first weekend of March. The urban area is adjacent to dense Alaskan wilderness, and dog sitters know the best off and on-leash areas for year-round enjoyment (assuming your pet doesn't mind snow; consult your home dog boarding specialist). Pet sitters frequent Connor's Lake, which has a dedicated dog park; University Lake Park's fun trails, especially in summer (when temperatures climb 50 degrees or more); and 500,000-acre Chugach State Park with rivers and streams, forest and mountains. Responsible dog sitting hosts are sure to keep pets on a leash in wilderness areas and away from wolves and moose.

Why you need home dog boarding: Man's best friend isn't welcome at the state's megashopping mall, Dimond Center, or most indoor businesses in Anchorage. Of course, you can find pet friendly places like Mollys Mutts-N-Mocha, an indoor coffee shop/café that welcomes your pet; Alaska Salmon Charter House, also downtown, admits dogs on the outdoor café area in summer and it's not uncommon to find a few pups and their pet sitting hosts enjoying the open air. DogVacay.com is the coolest place to find trusted dog sitters in Anchorage!